Screen Addiction - Classes 8 & 9

Continuing our previous discussion, we explored how many children feel “addicted” to their phones, apps, or games. Through these discussions, we saw how the technology we use every day is designed to capture and hold our attention.

In the workshop, students worked in teams to identify addictive and humane design features in the apps, games, and devices they use at home.

By understanding both sides of technology design, students can gain the knowledge and agency to make healthier choices in their digital lives. This can help them take control of their relationship with technology, rather than the other way around.

By the end of the workshop, students were able to:

• Distinguish between addictive and humane design features in digital media.
• Identify addictive design tricks in commonly used apps.
• Design solutions that transform addictive features into humane alternatives.
• Reflect on how technology design can affect well-being.
• Identify healthy technology habits that can help counter the impact of design tricks.

Parents play a crucial role in balancing their children’s digital consumption by setting, modelling, and reinforcing healthy screen-time limits to support physical and psychological well-being. The family information sheet offers tips for limiting screen time during the holidays.

Worksheet

Presentation